This event showcases the efforts of students, professional music coaches and Seattle Public School music teachers who are part of the SYSO in the Schools program. SYSO in the Schools provides free small-group lessons during the school day and out-of-school time to young musicians who have historically had inequitable access to music education. This program has resulted in a dramatic increase in the number of students in orchestral music playing at higher levels of musicianship. Students have also gained self-confidence, built their skills in self-discipline, concentration and collaboration, and have had higher levels of academic achievement and school engagement.

As Carmela Dellino, former Roxhill Elementary principal and current SPS Executive Director for West Seattle Schools, explains: “We are so pleased to have SYSO’s continued support of the young string musicians in our Southwest Seattle schools. The free coaching provided by SYSO gives these students access to high quality, individualized music lessons that families in this area might not otherwise be able to afford. When I was principal at Roxhill Elementary, I saw students who, because the SYSO coaches were there to nurture their musical skills, not only persevered in their instrument playing, but brought that same focus to other areas of study. These skills prepare students, even at the elementary level, for college and career.”

For more information about Southwest Seattle Super String Saturday, please contact Kathleen Allen, SYSO Director of Education, Communications and Partnerships at kathleen@syso.org or 206-362-2300. To learn more about SYSO and all of its programs supporting young musicians visit syso.org